Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that India maintains its autonomy in choosing international partners, dismissing potential threats from US secondary sanctions related to Russian oil imports. Lavrov’s comments followed inquiries about the US’s stance on India’s oil imports from Russia. He emphasized that the economic ties between Russia and India remain strong and are not at risk. Lavrov pointed out that Indian leadership has made it clear that India will determine its own alliances. He acknowledged the US’s right to propose avenues for improving trade relations with India but stressed that India would negotiate its other partnerships independently. Additionally, Lavrov reiterated Russia’s support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), highlighting the necessity of UNSC reform to reflect the current global dynamics.
